2011 Audi A4

Audi A4 - What the Auto Press Says

The 2011 Audi A4 ranks 9 out of 21 Upscale Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 23 published reviews and test drives of the Audi A4, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2011 Audi A4 is a viable alternative to the more-expensive BMW 3-series. It has an upscale, simple interior that ranks at the top of the class, and provides a fun ride that spices up daily commutes.

Audi refreshed the A4 in 2009. Two model years later, the 2011 Audi A4 has experienced few changes. For 2011, Audi gives the A4 an eight-speed triptonic automatic transmission with manual shift control and shifts amenities on the Prestige trim. Combined with its Quattro all-wheel drive system -- which Audi says more than 80 percent of buyers choose -- the 2011 Audi A4 corners aggressively and but can also be a quiet commuter.

While reviewers love this car’s appearance inside and out, Audi’s engine selection puzzles them: a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. The Audi A4 isn’t underpowered by any means, but in a segment where the competition has six cylinders, the Audi A4 will never be a top-notch driver. “The Audi A4 has never really been known for its performance,” Edmunds says. “Instead it has been (and continues to be) a car defined by a high-quality interior, one that’s typically the benchmark in its class.”

Even if the engine isn’t what it could be, the 2011 Audi A4 has a lot going for it. Fuel economy is great, and although its fuel ratings dropped a bit from last year, the A4 is still one of the most fuel efficient vehicles in the class. Audi says drivers should average 21 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway with the manual transmission. And since the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named the 2010 Audi A4 a “2010 Top Safety Pick,” drivers should feel just as safe driving the 2011 model because there are few significant changes.

The 2011 Audi A4 is the largest sedan -- and one of the most affordable -- among Upscale Midsize Cars. Buyers who want an upscale car, but are afraid of $33,000-plus price tags can settle for the pocket-book-friendly, but snazzy A4. However, the Audi A4's price can climb north of $40K with all of the options -- so don’t get carried away when choosing them.
Other Cars to Consider

There are a number of alternatives to the 2011 Audi A4 that are solid drivers and offer both all-wheel drive and luxury. The BMW 3-Series is a class favorite, but it is also more expensive. Starting around $33,000, the BMW 3-Series has earned a reputation as the best sport sedan for its balanced handling, powerful engines, and a classy interior that’s fitted with advanced electronics. Like the 2011 A4, the BMW 3-Series has optional all-wheel drive starting at $35,150. Also consider the Infiniti G37. This option, however, makes the G37 pricier. It starts at about $36,000.
Audi A4: The Details

The 2011 A4 comes as a sedan and an Avant wagon. Both models have the same trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. The Avant offers more cargo space. This wagon is reviewed separately, and costs about $4,000 more than the sedan. The A4 Cabriolet convertible has been dropped from the lineup and replaced with the sportier A5 Cabriolet.